Mammal’s diversity of Ladakh (Jammu and Kashmir), India

Abstract

Ladakh is a part of Trans-Himalayas in the Tibetan Plateau. The area is extremely arid, rugged and mountainous. The harsh environment is dwelling to only highly adaptable fauna. During the present studies, efforts have been made to compile the diversity of the Mammals as per the present studies as well as from the pertinent literature. It represents 35 species belonging to 23 genera, 13 families and 05 orders. 11 mammalian species are endemic to the area. The conservation status as per IUCN Red list of threatened species & cites and Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1772 has been discussed. The various anthropogenic activities viz. development, construction of roads, tourism pressure, habitat degradation, hunting, poaching, illegal trade etc. are the main threats in the area.